SWIFT/BIC code Checker

SWIFT/BIC codes follow a set format, which means we can help you determine if your code is valid and show you what the individual parts of the code mean.

Enter a BIC / SWIFT code to find out if it's correct and which bank it belongs to.
Enter a SWIFT code:
Please note that we're unable to confirm the existence of this code or verify if it's the precise SWIFT code for the intended account.
SWIFT Code:

AAAA-BB-CC XXX

White Topic Highlight Swift Code

What does a SWIFT/BIC code look like?

A SWIFT/BIC code is eight to eleven characters long. It can be used to identify what country, city, bank, and even specific branch an account belongs to.

  1. Bank code (A-Z)

The first four letters represent the name of the bank. Most of the time, this is easy to recognize, as it’s just a shortened version of the bank’s full commercial name.

  1. Country code

The next two letters show the country where the bank is based.

  1. Location code

These two characters are a letter and a number. They point out the location of the bank's headquarters.

  1. Branch code

The last three characters refer to a specific branch. "XXX" means you have the SWIFT code for the bank's headquarters.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common mistakes to look for when checking a SWIFT/BIC code?

It’s crucial to ensure you’re using an accurate SWIFT/BIC code for your international money transfer. Here are some key errors to avoid:

• Code length: SWIFT/BIC codes should be either eight or 11 characters long. An eight-character code points to the bank's head office, while an 11-character code specifies a branch.

• Misreading characters: Try not to mix up characters, such as confusing 'B' with 'D', which can incorrectly route your transaction. Also, be careful with similar-looking characters like '0' (zero) and 'O' (the letter), or '1' (one) and 'I' (the letter).

• Using outdated codes: Banks may sometimes change their SWIFT/BIC codes. Make sure you’re always using the current code.

• Incorrect branch codes: In 11-character codes, the last three characters identify the branch. Errors here can send funds to the wrong branch.

• Typographical errors: Simple typing mistakes can lead to invalid codes.

• Code confusion: It’s important not to confuse SWIFT/BIC codes with other banking codes like IBAN or routing numbers.

We recommend you always double-check you’re using an accurate SWIFT/BIC code before finalizing any transaction.

What happens if you enter the wrong number?

In the event that you send a payment to the wrong SWIFT/BIC code, the receiving bank will raise an alert saying they don’t manage your recipient's account, and simply reverse the payment.


If you realize you've entered the wrong SWIFT/BIC code, you should also immediately contact your bank and ask them to cancel the transaction.

Qonto’s SWIFT/BIC code checker helps you avoid the annoyance of entering the wrong SWIFT/BIC code when you transfer funds internationally.

What happens if you send money using a non-existent SWIFT/BIC code?

If the SWIFT/BIC code you use for your international transfer turns out to be inaccurate, the transaction will likely be rejected by the intermediary or recipient bank.


In these cases, you may experience some delays and the funds could ultimately be returned to your account, potentially leading to additional transaction fees.


We strongly recommend you always double-check you’re using the right SWIFT/BIC code with the recipient or their bank to avoid issues like these.

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